Planning and hosting a gathering does not have to be overwhelming.
Make it Impactful
Before diving into the planning details of your event, take some time to cozy up and ponder what the most important elements are for the specific occasion. What do you hope your guests will remember the most? What feel or vibe do you want to exude? What will the standout be – a guest of honor, a special dish, the experience of a curated tablescape, a comfortable lounge area in which to converse? After answering some of these questions, hone your energy on finding ways to create these stand-out moments within your party. Focusing décor and activities in carefully thought-out areas helps to spread both time and financial resources, as well as creates stand-out spots or activities for your guests to enjoy.
Make it Personal
After relishing in the dreams of what you want your event to feel and look like, take some time to consider your crowd. Will there be children that would love a special area just for them? Do you have an intimate group that longs to linger around a meal table with candlelight and conversation? Is yours a game-playing crowd that loves some friendly holiday-themed competition? After your mental survey, find ways to integrate these preferences into your gathering. Next, as the host, consider ways that you can sprinkle in personal touches straight from you. Does your family have that comforting recipe from Great Grandma Ida that they spend the year pining for? Perhaps a special parting gift for your guests to remember the evening by would be appreciated. Consider a signature, themed cocktail or a unique personalized item at each place setting. These types of often overlooked elements add your special stamp, leaving a lasting impression on your guests. Who doesn’t love to spend time with people they enjoy, especially while feeling thoughtfully considered as an individual guest?
Simplify for the Host
Part of the delight of a gathering is being able to be present with your guests and have the energy left to enjoy the event. Think of ways to employ some “experts,” thus alleviating some workload and allowing you to enjoy the creative and hosting process more. Maybe this looks like purchasing a favorite dessert or a savory appetizer from a local restaurant, commissioning a floral piece for added décor, or even renting a curated tablescape complete with charming dinnerware (that you don’t even have to wash!). Might one of your guests have a special talent or delicious dish they would enjoy contributing? Also, consider elements that can be done in stages or ahead of the actual event day, alleviating some time pressures on the day of. Holidays come with a long list of to-dos accompanied by limited time reserves. The investment required to plan ahead as well as employ other resources returns in the amount of enjoyment and fulfillment both you as the host and your loved-on guests leave with at the closing of the festivities.
Planning and hosting a gathering does not have to be overwhelming. Focusing your thoughts and efforts in some of the ways mentioned helps to bring the element of fun and contentment to the process. Thoughtfully curating the elements of your holiday gathering leads to creating those sought-after moments of merriment, which result in memories for a lifetime! QCBN
By Holly Jones and Annie Sharp
Holly Jones and Annie Sharp are the owners of One Hundred Chairs, a locally owned company specializing in elevating events with their unique rental items. Along with vintage finds and specialty items, they offer design services to help make an event distinctly yours and event styling that will transform any space into something magical, memorable and personal. If looking to host a holiday party or any other festive event, contact One Hundred Chairs at 928-275-2784 or enjoy learning more by visiting www.onehundredchairs.com.
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